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If you’re craving a meal that feels like a warm hug coming from the kitchen, this Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef simmered for hours alongside savory broth, garlic, and aromatic herbs, eventually joined by soft, comforting egg noodles that soak up all those rich flavors. It’s a classic comfort dish that’s effortless to prepare but delivers big on taste and heartiness. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or simply want a fuss-free dinner that feels indulgent, this recipe will soon become one of your go-to favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential to crafting the perfect Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles Recipe. Each one plays a crucial role — from the rich beef broth to the tenderizing herbs and the hearty noodles that make this dish complete.
- 2 pounds beef stew meat or chuck roast: The foundation of the dish, providing rich flavor and tenderness after slow cooking.
- 1 medium onion (chopped): Adds sweetness and depth to the broth as it simmers.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with its signature savory aroma and taste.
- 4 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred): Creates a flavorful, rich base while keeping control over saltiness.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami complexity and a subtle tang.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Brings a gentle earthiness that complements the beef perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: A touch of heat to balance the savory notes.
- 12 oz egg noodles: The comforting carb that soaks up all the luscious juices and flavors.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening): Helps create a luscious, thicker sauce if desired.
- 2 tablespoons cold water: Used to mix with cornstarch for that perfect gravy consistency.
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds a pop of freshness and color when serving.
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
Start by adding your chunks of beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic into the slow cooker. Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, then sprinkle in the dried thyme and black pepper. Give everything a good stir so that the flavors start mingling right away. This initial mix is where the magic begins, setting the stage for that deep, savory taste.
Step 2: Slow Cook to Tender Perfection
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 7 to 8 hours or high for 4 to 5 hours. During this time, the beef slowly breaks down and becomes unbelievably tender—just right for shredding. The gentle simmer allows every herb and spice to fully infuse into the meat and broth, creating that rich, comforting base for your noodles.
Step 3: Add the Egg Noodles
About 20 to 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, shred the beef slightly with two forks if you like it pulled apart. Stir in the uncooked egg noodles directly into the slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for the next 20 to 30 minutes until the noodles are tender but not mushy. This step transforms the dish into the classic beef and noodles we all love.
Step 4: Optional Thickening Step
If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker during the last 10 minutes of cooking. It will give the sauce a glossy, rich texture that clings beautifully to every noodle and piece of beef.
Step 5: Final Seasoning and Garnish
Give your Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles Recipe a taste test and adjust the seasoning if needed, perhaps a touch more pepper or a pinch of salt. Once you’re happy with the flavor, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a lovely pop of color and brightness just before serving.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic garnish that adds a splash of green and a fresh herbal note that cuts through the richness. You can also experiment with a little grated Parmesan for a cheesy twist or some finely chopped chives for a mild onion flavor that complements the beef.
Side Dishes
This hearty dish stands well on its own, but pairing it with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans adds freshness and crunch. A crisp side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the savory richness of the noodles. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette are also fantastic for soaking up every last drop of that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the beef and noodles over mashed potatoes or buttered rice instead of noodles for a new spin on classic comfort food. You can also plate it in deep bowls, perfect for a cozy family dinner, or make individual mini casseroles with a sprinkle of cheese melted on top under the broiler for a bubbly finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftover Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days, making it a great option for easy weekday meals or quick lunches.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some room for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture. Just thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking or overcooking. If the sauce has thickened too much, simply add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up. You can also reheat in the microwave, stirring halfway through for even warming.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! Chuck roast or stew meat work best due to their marbling and ability to become tender during slow cooking, but you can also experiment with brisket or short ribs for even more flavor.
Do I need to brown the beef before adding it to the slow cooker?
Browning beef is optional for this recipe. While it adds a deeper flavor, the slow cooker does a great job of building flavor during the cooking process, so you can skip this step for convenience.
Can I use frozen egg noodles instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen egg noodles are a fine alternative! Just keep in mind they might require a few extra minutes of cooking in the slow cooker to become tender.
How do I prevent the noodles from getting mushy?
Adding the noodles only in the last 20 to 30 minutes of cooking ensures they stay tender but maintain their texture. Overcooking noodles by adding them too early will definitely lead to mushiness.
Is this recipe suitable for a nut-free diet?
Yes, the Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles Recipe is naturally nut-free. Just ensure the Worcestershire sauce and beef broth brands you use do not contain any nut-derived ingredients if allergies are a concern.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles Recipe is an absolute gem for anyone seeking a home-cooked meal that feels effortless yet incredibly satisfying. The slow-cooked beef paired with silky noodles creates a harmony of flavors and textures that will warm you up on any evening. Give it a try—you might just find a new family favorite that’s both a tasty and comforting classic.
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Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Nut-Free
Description
A hearty and comforting Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles recipe featuring tender chunks of beef cooked low and slow with savory herbs and seasonings, then combined with tender egg noodles for a delicious, easy family meal.
Ingredients
Beef and Broth
- 2 pounds beef stew meat or chuck roast (cut into chunks)
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Noodles and Thickening
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons cold water
Garnish
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Add the beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and black pepper to your slow cooker. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Slow Cook the Beef: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours until the beef becomes very tender and easy to shred with forks.
- Shred and Add Noodles: Approximately 20 to 30 minutes before serving, shred the beef slightly with forks if desired, then stir in the uncooked egg noodles. Cover and cook on high for an additional 20 to 30 minutes until the noodles are tender.
- Thicken Sauce (Optional): If you want a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl to create a slurry and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Adjust and Garnish: Taste the dish and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving warm to add a fresh color and flavor contrast.
Notes
- This dish is hearty and comforting on its own but pairs well with steamed vegetables or a fresh side salad for a balanced meal.
- You can substitute frozen egg noodles, but allow extra cooking time to ensure they cook through completely.
- Using low sodium beef broth helps control the salt content, but adjust seasoning to taste at the end.
- Shredding the beef before adding noodles helps the flavors blend better and creates a more cohesive texture.
